Camping near Shawnee National Forest

Camping near Shawnee National Forest, Illinois, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the stunning trails in the area. Many campers rave about the trails at Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground, with one visitor saying, "Easy walking distance to the observation trail that is the highlight of this park."
• Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, head to Gun Creek. A reviewer mentioned, "Clean facilities. Self check-in. Golf onsite, clubhouse with food," making it a great spot for a relaxing day by the water.
• Rock Climbing: For the adventurous, Jackson Falls is known for its climbing spots. One camper noted, "Great place to backwoods camp. It can be busy on the weekends and can be difficult to find an open site at times."

What campers like:

• Cleanliness: Campers appreciate well-maintained facilities. At Shawnee Forest Campground, one visitor said, "The camp was clean and well maintained. The staff are very friendly and helpful."
• Seclusion: Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. A reviewer at Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs mentioned, "Very quiet and peaceful," highlighting the campground's charm.
• Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful landscapes. At Giant City State Park Campground, one guest shared, "The shorter trails in the park were beautiful even in the winter."

What you should know:

• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Turkey Ridge Campground — Ferne Clyffe State Park, have basic facilities. A camper noted, "The campground is basic—there’s an honor box if you don’t pay online."
• Busy Weekends: Expect crowds on weekends. A visitor at Pharoah - Garden of the Gods Rec Area Campground advised, "Recommend only visiting Monday thru Thursday."
• Road Conditions: Some access roads can be rough. A camper at Jackson Falls mentioned, "The road to get into the primitive camp area is long, and just a little bumpy."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities. Shawnee Forest Campground has paved trails, making it easier for families to explore together. One reviewer said, "The trails are paved so we had a nice area to walk."
• Plan for Activities: Bring games or outdoor toys. A family at Giant City State Park Campground enjoyed the playground, stating, "The playground was good."
• Pack Snacks: Keep everyone fueled for adventures. A camper at Redbud Campground at Bell Smith Springs mentioned, "Great hiking and scenery and it was very quiet at night."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Not all sites are level or spacious. A reviewer at Gun Creek noted, "Not all spots are flat. Clean facilities."
• Reserve Early: Popular spots fill up fast. A camper at South Sandusky Campground mentioned, "All campsites are reservable but reserved campsites are not marked on the post when you arrive."
• Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds lack certain amenities. A visitor at Pine Ridge said, "There is no sanitary dump station, and the water spigot does not have a way to hook up a hose to fill your tank."

Camping near Shawnee National Forest, Illinois, is a great way to enjoy nature and create lasting memories. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!